2008 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
Because 2008 BMW 523 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Ford Focus (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 523 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
